As the fastest-growing sport in America, Pickleball has taken the country by storm. Despite its popularity, finding open play games in Chicago can be a challenge. But fear not, we have put together a guide to help you find the perfect open pickleball court in Chicago. Whether you're a seasoned pro looking to sharpen your skills or a newbie interested in picking up the game, this guide will help you find the best open play games in the city.
First, let's talk about what pickleball open play is all about. Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is played on a court with a 34-inch high net, slightly smaller than a tennis court. Open play refers to organized or unorganized games where players can come and go as they please, usually free of cost or at a nominal fee. These games are usually held in community centers, parks or outdoor courts.
The first step to finding good open play games in Chicago is to do some research. The easiest way to start is to use the internet. Sites like the USA Pickleball Association and Pickleball Tournaments have state-specific directories that have a list of local clubs and contacts
One great platform to find open play games is the Conquer app. This app is free to download and easy to use. It lists all upcoming games in the area and allows you to reserve your spot. The app also has a feature that allows you to pay any fees directly through the platform, making it a one-stop-shop solution. The app has partnered with various courts and clubs in Chicago and ensures that the information is up-to-date.
The Conquer App has a bunch of open play pickleball games on the app. Here are a few of them:
Pickleball Johnny is a certified Pro Coach who hosts his own open play games along with clinics and lessons. The School House Chicago is also hosting open play pickleball games. When you book your spot to play at the School House, you will even get to have one free drink at their bar! Both of these options are fantastic for those that want to hop into a friendly competitive match of pickleball!
Another great way to find open play games is to visit Chicago Pickleball Facebook groups. In these groups, community leaders will always have an answer to where open play pickleball is being played that day. All you have to do is post in the groups and you will have many people commenting that they are playing in Chicago.
If you're looking for a more competitive game, you can look to participate in tournaments. The USAPA (USA Pickleball) hosts regional and national tournaments for all levels of players. There are also various local tournaments held throughout the year, such as the Chicago Pickleball Open, which attracts players from around the country. Tournaments are a great way to test your skills, make friends in the community, and win prizes too.
If you're passionate about pickleball, there's little stopping you from finding the perfect open play game in Chicago. The key is to do a little research, take advantage of community resources, and be a part of the growing pickleball community. Whether it's through online directories, local parks or sports centers, there are plenty of places to play pickleball in Chicago. So what are you waiting for? Grab your paddle and get ready to conquer the court today. Check out the Conquer app to get started!